How to learn anything efficiently
Learn a new skill quickly and enjoy the process
I remember the day when I watched the TED video https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=5MgBikgcWnY3 (The first 20 hours — how to learn anything), I feel so inspired. This resonates with my learning experiences and I wanted to also share my two cents with you on how to learn anything quickly and efficiently:
- Be proactive
I wanted to start my points by using the first principle from the famous book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People — take initiative and be proactive. What this means is that if you find something that sparks your interests and is worth the time of your learning, then start right now and do not procrastinate. I usually start my research right away and start taking in information related to the topic as much as possible, without any fear of completing the task. Rather, I enjoy the process and envision myself becoming knowledgeable in this field. Nowadays, information is bounty — no matter free or paid — you can learn anything from books, videos, podcasts, and so on.
2. Write it down
When you have taken a certain amount of information, you will form concepts in your head and start getting ideas yourselves. It is important to take notes and to jot down any inspirations that populate in your mind as well. Review your notes often — as every time you write and review, it is an opportunity to consolidate what you have learned as well as to practice your critical thinking.
3. Speak it out loud
It is not necessary that you have to speak out your ideas in a public speaking setting or a large meeting. But sharing your thoughts with friends, colleagues or readers is a great method to think through the details and reexamine your thinking process. You will look at your learning results so far and find where to catch up on. Sometimes, it could be a time of recreation as well. For example, in the video shared above, when you just learned a new skill (i.e. an instrument), it is a great idea to perform in front of people so that you not only have to practice the skill more but also get a chance to show your understanding of it. You will also know where to improve next time after the performance. As people say, when you have just learned a new concept, only when you know how to teach other people the same concept, you can say you have fully mastered it.
You can absorb positive information by listing to podcasts, reading books, conducting interviews, watching teaching videos, and many more methods. However, it is even more important to consolidate your skills by taking notes. And finally, you can produce outputs by reiterating them, teaching them to others, and showing them to a broader audience. Hope this article can help you in some way in your learning journey.
